By Jessica Afuye
The road to World Cup glory grew narrower and more dramatic on Saturday as England and Argentina survived stern quarter-final tests to book their places in the semi-finals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, setting up a tantalising showdown between two of football’s most storied nations.
For England, it was Jude Bellingham who once again proved to be the difference-maker. For Argentina, it was the depth of a champion team that carried them through when the pressure was at its highest.
With Spain and France already through to the last four, the spotlight turned to Miami and Kansas City, where two gripping contests delivered the latest twists in a tournament that has consistently served up drama.
At the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami, England were forced to dig deep against a fearless Norwegian side determined to create history.
The Scandinavians looked on course for a famous upset when Andreas Schjelderup silenced the England supporters with a well-taken goal in the 36th minute. Norway’s energetic display exposed vulnerabilities in Thomas Tuchel’s side and raised fresh questions about England’s ability to cope under pressure.
But when England needed inspiration, Bellingham provided it.
The Real Madrid star drew England level before half-time with a composed finish, reminding the world why he has become the heartbeat of this team. His equaliser restored belief and shifted momentum in England’s favour, although Norway continued to battle bravely.
As the second half unfolded, both teams searched desperately for a winner, but neither could find the decisive touch, sending the contest into extra time.
Then came the defining moment.
With tension gripping the stadium and the prospect of penalties looming, Bellingham once again stepped forward. The midfielder struck his second goal of the night to complete England’s comeback and send the Three Lions into the semi-finals with a hard-fought 2-1 victory.
While England celebrated, Norway departed with their heads held high after a campaign that captured the imagination of football fans around the world. Their talisman, Erling Haaland, was largely neutralised by England’s defence, a key factor in the outcome.
Thousands of kilometres away in Kansas City, defending champions Argentina were engaged in a battle of their own against a disciplined and determined Swiss side.
The South Americans began brightly and were rewarded when Alexis Mac Allister opened the scoring, giving Argentina an early advantage and appearing to put Lionel Scaloni’s side on course for a comfortable evening.
Switzerland, however, had other ideas.
Refusing to be overawed by the occasion or the pedigree of their opponents, the Swiss gradually grew into the game and found a deserved equaliser through Dan Ndoye in the second half.
The goal transformed the contest into a nerve-racking affair, with Argentina suddenly facing the prospect of an early exit.
Yet champions often find a way when the stakes are highest.
As extra time wore on and penalties appeared inevitable, Julián Álvarez delivered a moment of quality that shifted the balance once more. The Manchester City forward restored Argentina’s lead, triggering relief among the Argentine supporters.
Moments later, Lautaro Martínez added a third goal to extinguish Swiss hopes and seal a 3-1 victory that kept Argentina’s dream of retaining the World Cup alive.
Although Lionel Messi did not get on the scoresheet, the veteran captain remained influential throughout, orchestrating attacks and providing the composure expected of a player competing in what could be his final World Cup.
The quarter-final victories have now set the stage for a blockbuster semi-final between England and Argentina, a fixture steeped in history, rivalry and unforgettable World Cup moments.
On the other side of the draw, European heavyweights France and Spain will battle for a place in the final, ensuring that four of football’s most accomplished nations remain in contention for the sport’s biggest prize.
As the tournament enters its decisive phase, the margin for error has disappeared. What remains is a battle between giants, where moments of brilliance, courage and composure will determine who earns the right to lift the 2026 FIFA World Cup trophy.